Pilates

'In ten sessions, you'll feel the difference. In twenty, you'll see the difference. And in thirty, you'll have a whole new body.'

The Pilates Method is a system of physical fitness and rehabilitation that focuses on strengthening the core muscles of the trunk, properly aligning the spine, and increasing flexibility and muscle tone throughout the body. Developed by Joseph H. Pilates in the early 20th century, Pilates consists of a series of more than 500 exercises performed on specialized apparatus and exercise mats.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does it work?
• What is its origin?
• Is it right for me?
• What can Pilates do for me and my body?
• What should I look for in a Pilates instructor?
• Who are your instructors?
• Do you have any testimonials?

How does it work?

It's all about balance. Movement within the body is initiated by deep internal muscles known as stabilizers. When these muscles are injured or out of balance, weaknesses are created that can result in bad habits, decreased range of motion, and even chronic injuries. Each of the Pilates exercises combines precise, controlled physical movements, proper breathing, and sustained placement of attention. When practiced regularly, they strengthen the stabilizers, resulting in maximum stability, increased range of motion, and restored balance.

What is its origin?

Joseph H. Pilates developed The Pilates Method in the early 1900s. Plagued by asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever as a child, he wanted to find a way to strengthen his body. As an intern during the first World War, he began to teach fellow interns his new method, which he called the Art of 'Contrology' or muscle control. Using this innovative new health program, he was able to successfully maintain and even improve the health of many patients throughout the influenza epidemic of 1918, a result that many in the medical profession noted.

In 1926, Joseph H. Pilates moved to the United States and opened the first official Pilates Studio¨ in New York City. His technique immediately attracted the attention of dancers and performers who discovered that the exercises not only helped rehabilitate injuries, but also enabled them to take their performances to a whole new level of athleticism and skill.

Over the past 20 years, people of all ages and walks of life have discovered the strengthening, toning, and rehabilitation effects of Pilates. Health professionals, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts have all embraced the benefits of Pilates for rehabilitation, cross training, and general strength and conditioning. Even Hollywood stars, such as Madonna, Sharon Stone, and Jodie Foster, have recognized the benefits of Pilates and practice it regularly.

Is it right for me?

Just about anyone and everyone can practice Pilates. Many experts and health professionals describe it as 'the perfect exercise system.' It is great choice for:

• Athletes, dancers, and performers
• People who need rehabilitation for muscle and joint injuries
• People with poor posture, chronic tension, and fatigue
• Anyone who wants to practice a non-impact strengthening and stretching program

What can Pilates do for me and my body?

Traditional methods of training and developing the body tend to produce short, bulky muscles÷precisely the type of musculature most prone to injury. Pilates elongates the spine, increasing the elasticity of muscles and the flexibility of joints. This balance between strength and flexibility drastically reduces the risks of injury.

Pilates emphasizes flowing movements requiring the simultaneous use of multiple muscle groups. Controlled breathing and concentration are essential, truly making Pilates a workout for the body and the mind. It avoids the tendency of many exercise forms to emphasize the already-strong muscles and to neglect those which are weaker. In this way Pilates can help your body regain efficient patterns of motion÷a great benefit to those recovering from injury, professional athletes and performers, or anyone seeking good posture and optimal health.

Consistent Pilates training will:

• Build longer, leaner muscles
• Increase flexibility, body awareness, and concentration
• Improve posture, coordination, and balance
• Decrease incidence of back pain
• Help prevent injury
• Create a flatter stomach and trimmer waist
• Improve performance in sports and dance
• Elongate and stabilize the spine
• Increase joint mobility
• Maintain strength and function at any age

What should I look for in a Pilates instructor?

Qualified Pilates instructors should have successfully completed a comprehensive certification program that includes a written and practical test, lecture time, observation, practice, and a substantial number of apprentice hours. The Pilates Method is a knowledge-based method of exercise and training; there is simply no substitute for time spent in certification training. (Learn more about our instructors [link to instructors page].)

It may also be helpful to ask the following questions:

• 1. Do the instructors have any other movement-related teaching experience?
• 2. How long have the instructors been teaching Pilates?
• 3. What is the instructor's/studio's philosophy and specialty? Are they able to handle special needs, injuries, and rehabilitation?
• 4. Does the instructor or studio teach the full repertoire of Pilates on all pieces of apparatus?